March 5, 2010

MY SIX PACK BIBLE TALKING GIRLFRIENDS

Key Verse
"It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1)
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Central Truth

We must trust God; surround yourself with people who will teach you about Christ Jesus.


Reflections

Before attending Grace and Celebrate Recovery I was around good people, but never did we discuss the Bible or Jesus Christ.  My husband and I worked hard and had three businesses at the same time.  We thought work would get us where we wanted to go.  

I felt I was an honest hard working person who believed in God, but I did not read the Bible much.  And when I did read it I didn't understand what it was telling me.  I felt if I lived a different life style than my family, I would have a better life than theirs.

Becoming a grandmother at the age of 39 was a very difficult time in my life. My daughter was only 15. I was always there for my daughter and was at everything she did, and I asked "Why did this happen to my family?"  I trusted people I should not have. Now remember, I believed in God but did not know how to communicate with Him.

Well, my grandson is now 11. He has brought joy to our lives that we would not have otherwise experienced. I am thankful that God does not choose the people he loves, he loves us ALL. We as Christ followers must love our neighbor as we love ourself.  That does not necessarily mean I should trust my neighbor, but I should have love in my heart for them.  

My best friend Terri talked me into attending Celebrate Recovery.  That is where I began to forgive and heal, through Jesus.  That 's when I was able to trust my Christ-following best friends and let them into my heart.  They have opened my eyes to so much of God.  Surrounding myself with the right people, I'm now able to help those who don't know Jesus Christ.  We come to God through Him, not by keeping rules.

I think of Galatians 5:4-5:  You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.  For we by the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness.

Discussion Questions

  1. Have you fallen into a mindset of trying to earn God's favor by keeping rules instead of depending solely upon Christ?
  2. Do you truly have the love of Christ in your heart?
  3. Can you forgive the one who has hurt your heart or are you out for revenge?

Comments

The views expressed under “Comments” are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Grace Community Church.
  1. Jeri Stewart

    March 5, 2010 09:43 AM

    Thanks for your open, honest devotion, Deanna. It really touched my heart today. Jeri

  2. Doug Quinn

    March 5, 2010 09:50 AM

    Thank you for sharing this part of your journey with us! Your witness is very powerful, meaningful and is one of those you want to read and re-read again and again.

  3. Susan Miner

    March 5, 2010 10:34 AM

    Deanna, thanks for sharing with us. I relate to your story in several ways. You are an awesome example and inspiration.

  4. Evelyn Kennedy

    March 5, 2010 12:57 PM

    Your devo was so timely in my life. Thank you for the truth that I never tire of hearing. I appreciate your honesty & sharing.

  5. Lynnette Gore

    March 5, 2010 01:46 PM

    Thank you for sharing your heart with us today. Your life shows Christ's love to others.

  6. Lynn Carpenter

    March 6, 2010 05:39 PM

    I certainly can relate to your touching devotional because I, too, traveled down your path thirteen years ago with my daughter. I also have a grandson born to my teenage daughter at the time, but God is amazing. Truly, I believe "In all things God works for the good for those who believe and are called according to His purpose. Thanks!

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